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Zed Aziz
The primary difference between FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) and ER (Earned Recognition) is the scope of their assessments.
FORS: This scheme focuses on the overall management of a fleet, including safety, environmental performance, and operational efficiency. It involves a comprehensive audit of the operator's systems, policies, and procedures.
ER: This scheme specifically targets the performance of individual drivers and vehicles. It involves a combination of on-road observations, telematics data analysis, and driver assessments to evaluate the operator's compliance with road traffic regulations and best practices.
While both schemes share the goal of improving road safety and environmental performance, they take different approaches to achieving this. FORS focuses on the broader organisational level, while ER concentrates on the individual driver and vehicle level.
In essence, FORS assesses the operator's system, and ER assesses the operator's practice.
Both FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) and ER (Earned Recognition) employ a combination of assessment, recognition, and support to achieve their objectives of improving road safety, environmental performance, and operational efficiency.
FORS
Comprehensive Assessment: FORS conducts a thorough audit of an operator's management systems, policies, procedures, and practices. This includes areas such as vehicle maintenance, driver training, fuel efficiency, and environmental management.
Recognition: Operators who successfully meet the FORS standards are awarded a certification, which can enhance their reputation and business opportunities.
Support: FORS provides guidance, resources, and training to help operators improve their performance and achieve certification.
ER
On-Road Observations: ER involves observing drivers' behaviour on the road, including adherence to traffic laws, speed limits, and other safety regulations.
Telematics Data Analysis: Telematics devices are used to monitor vehicle performance, fuel consumption, and driving style. This data is analysed to identify areas for improvement.
Driver Assessments: ER assesses drivers' skills, knowledge, and attitude through a combination of practical tests and theoretical assessments.
Recognition: Operators with a high proportion of compliant drivers and vehicles are awarded recognition.
Support: ER provides guidance and training to
help operators improve their drivers' performance and reduce the risk of
incidents.
FORS:
Bronze Level: Focuses on legal compliance, safety, and efficiency.
Silver Level: Adds environmental and safety requirements, including vehicle and driver safety. Requires checking driver licenses with DVLA data, and fitting vehicles with safety features like audible alarms and blind spot minimisation devices.
Gold Level: Emphasises best practices and continuous improvement in safety, efficiency, and environmental performance. Requires demonstrating performance improvements and promoting FORS standards throughout the supply chain.
Audit Process: Involves annual audits by an independent FORS certification body, with costs varying based on fleet size and accreditation level.
DVSA (Earned Recognition):
Self-Assessment: Operators conduct a self-assessment to determine their compliance with ER standards.
Third-Party Verification: A qualified third-party auditor assesses the operator's compliance with the standards.
Accreditation: If the operator meets the standards, they are awarded ER accreditation.
Module Structure: Includes the TfL-accredited module for bidding on TfL contracts. Modules cover various compliance needs like TfL contractual requirements, CLOCS, Direct Vision standards, Work Related Road Risk, London Lorry Control, and the Safer Lorry Scheme.
Audit Process: Requires approved reporting systems that share performance data with the DVSA. The DVSA provides support to address any compliance issues identified.
FORS:
Initial Costs: Varies depending on the level of accreditation sought (Bronze, Silver, Gold).
Maintenance Costs: Annual audits and recertification can be costly and resource-intensive. For example, a Bronze level operator with two centres and 50 trucks may pay £900 for the initial audit and between £1,250 and £1,790 annually for maintenance.
DVSA - Earned Recognition:
Free to Join: The scheme itself is free, though there may be costs associated with setting up and maintaining the approved reporting systems. These could include IT systems. Preliminary audit is also required to join the ER scheme.
FORS:
Marketability: FORS accreditation can significantly enhance an operator’s reputation and marketability.
Contract Requirements: Increasingly required by clients, particularly in urban and construction sectors. Ties in with other schemes like CLOCS and TfL's WRRR initiative.
Operational Efficiency: Promotes best practices that can lead to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
Professional Development: Offers industry-leading training programs such as the Safe Urban Driving course, to support operators and personnel associated with transport & logistics Industry.
DVSA - Earned Recognition:
Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to legal standards, reducing the risk of fines and penalties.
Safety and Reliability: Helps maintain high standards of safety and reliability for both vehicles and drivers.
Contract Opportunities: The TfL-accredited module allows operators to bid for significant contracts in London. The scheme includes modules tailored to specific contract requirements, such as HS2.
Supportive Framework: Provides a transparent relationship with DVSA, which offers support to fix compliance issues.
FORS:
Positive Feedback: Many operators report improvements in operational efficiency, safety, and environmental impact.
Market Demand: Clients, especially in urban logistics, often prefer or require FORS-accredited operators.
Size and Scope: FORS has around 4,700 accredited operators managing approximately 90,000 vehicles.
Visibility: FORS (Gold, Silver & Bronze) badges are displayed on vehicles, and the FORS logo is often featured on operator websites and publications.
DVSA - Earned Recognition:
Trust and Reliability: Customers trust operators who comply with DVSA standards due to their stringent regulatory focus.
Accessibility: About 10% of the UK’s national HGV fleet has Earned Recognition accreditation, highlighting its accessibility to operators of all sizes.
Feedback: Operators appreciate the scheme's support in maintaining compliance and the competitive edge provided by the TfL-accredited module.
FORS:
Cost and Resources: Achieving and maintaining accreditation can be resource-intensive and costly.
Ongoing Commitment: Requires continuous adherence to high standards and regular audits.
DVSA (Earned Recognition):
Perceived as Basic: May be seen as a minimum standard for compliance rather than an aspirational goal.
Initial Setup: While free, the setup and maintenance of approved reporting systems may involve initial investments.
FORS:
Cross-Scheme Integration: Silver level ties in with CLOCS and TfL's WRRR initiative. FORS standards are recognised and often required by other schemes.
Unified Standards: Encourages comprehensive safety and operational standards across different schemes.
DVSA (Earned Recognition):
Unified Audits: The ER scheme can integrate with other audits, like the Guild of British Coach Operators, to streamline processes and reduce redundancy.
Modular Flexibility: Allows operators to choose specific modules relevant to their business needs, reducing unnecessary compliance tasks.
FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme): While FORS does not have a direct or immediate impact on an operator’s OCRS, it plays a crucial role in improving compliance and operational standards. By adhering to the stringent requirements and undergoing regular audits, operators enhance their practices in vehicle maintenance, driver training, and overall fleet management. This continuous improvement helps reduce the likelihood of infractions and non-compliance, which can indirectly contribute to a better OCRS over time. The scheme's focus on proactive management and data reporting further supports maintaining high compliance standards.
Earned Recognition (ER) Scheme: The Earned Recognition scheme has a direct impact on an operator’s OCRS by granting them a 'blue' status, which indicates a low-risk profile. This status results from continuous compliance with high standards and regular performance data sharing with the DVSA. Members benefit from fewer roadside checks and DVSA visits, as the agency relies on transparent data to monitor compliance. This direct relationship with the DVSA ensures that any compliance issues are promptly addressed, maintaining a low OCRS and reinforcing the operator's reputation for excellence in safety and regulatory adherence.
Being part of the DVSA Earned Recognition scheme may make a public inquiry at the Traffic Commissioners Office more straightforward compared to being part of FORS.
Here's why:
Focus on Driver Performance: ER specifically focuses on driver performance, which is a key factor considered by Traffic Commissioners in public inquiries. A strong record of driver compliance and safety can significantly mitigate potential penalties or restrictions.
Recognition of Best Practices: ER is recognised by the DVSA as a scheme that promotes best practices in the industry. This can enhance your credibility and improve your chances of a favourable outcome at a public inquiry.
Evidence of Compliance: ER provides evidence of your commitment to compliance with road traffic regulations and industry standards. This can help strengthen your case and demonstrate that you are taking steps to improve your operations.
While FORS is also a valuable accreditation scheme, it may not be as directly relevant to the specific issues often addressed in public inquiries, which frequently involve driver behaviour and vehicle safety.
It's important to note that while ER can be beneficial, it's not a guaranteed protection against enforcement action. Ultimately, the outcome of a public inquiry will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the evidence presented. While Traffic Commissioners (TCs) are part of the Department for Transport, they are impartial and cannot base their judgments solely on the accreditation scheme an operator is part of. Public inquiries are evidence-based events, and the outcome will depend on the specific evidence presented by the operator and any other relevant parties. While being part of a scheme like ER can provide valuable evidence of your commitment to safety and compliance, it does not guarantee a favourable outcome.
FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme)
Technological Investments:
Telematics Systems: Vehicle Tracking: £20-£40 per vehicle per month. Driver Performance Monitoring: Included in telematics packages or £10-£20 per driver per month.
Compliance and Safety Equipment: Cameras and Sensors: £200-£500 per vehicle for installation. Audible Alarms: £50-£100 per vehicle.
Data Management Tools: DVLA Data Access: £1-£3 per check. Fleet Management Software: £50-£100 per vehicle per month.
E-Learning Platforms: Training Modules: £100-£500 per driver for access to e-learning content. Professional Development Tracking: Included in some e-learning platforms or £5-£10 per driver per month.
Fuel and Tyre Management: Monitoring Systems: £20-£50 per vehicle per month.
Continued Compliance Costs:
Initial Audit Fees: £900-£1,500 for the initial audit.
Annual Maintenance Fees: £1,250-£1,790 for ongoing accreditation (varies by fleet size and level).
Training and Upskilling Time:
Initial Training: Approximately 1-2 weeks for comprehensive training on all systems and processes.
Ongoing Training: Regular updates and training sessions, approximately 1-2 days per quarter.
Technological Investments:
IT Systems for Compliance Reporting: DVSA-Validated Software: £100-£500 per month depending on fleet size and features. Automated Reporting Systems: £50-£100 per vehicle per month.
Telematics and Data Integration: Performance Tracking: £20-£40 per vehicle per month. Real-Time Monitoring: £10-£30 per vehicle per month.
Fleet Management Systems: Centralised Data Management: £50-£100 per vehicle per month. Compliance Alerts: Often included in fleet management software packages.
Optional Module Adaptations: Specific Contract Modules (e.g., HS2, TfL): £500-£1,000 for module access and compliance setup. Safety Features Installation: £200-£500 per vehicle.
Costs: Scheme Membership: Free to join, but costs are associated with required systems and modules.
Performance Reporting Systems: £50-£100 per vehicle per month.
Training and Upskilling Time:
Initial Training: Approximately 1 week for setting up and learning the compliance reporting systems.
Ongoing Training: Minimal, as the systems are designed to be user-friendly; 1-2 days per quarter for updates and additional training.
Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS)
Pros:
Comprehensive Assessment: FORS provides a thorough audit of an operator's management systems, policies, procedures, and practices, ensuring high standards of safety, environmental performance, and operational efficiency.
Marketability: FORS accreditation enhances an operator’s reputation and marketability, often being a requirement for contracts in urban and construction sectors.
Professional Development: FORS offers extensive training programs, such as the Safe Urban Driving course, supporting operators and personnel in the transport and logistics industry.
Cross-Scheme Integration: The FORS silver level ties in with other schemes like CLOCS and TfL's WRRR initiative, providing a unified standard of safety and operational practices.
Cons:
Cost and Resources: Achieving and maintaining FORS accreditation can be resource-intensive and costly, with significant expenses for initial and annual audits.
Ongoing Commitment: Operators must continuously adhere to high standards and undergo regular audits, which can be demanding in terms of time and resources.
Indirect Impact on OCRS: While FORS improves compliance standards, it does not have a direct or immediate impact on an operator’s OCRS.
DVSA Earned Recognition (ER)
Pros:
Direct Impact on OCRS: The ER scheme grants operators a 'blue' status, indicating a low-risk profile, which directly improves their OCRS.
Cost-Effective: The scheme is free to join, though there may be initial costs associated with setting up the necessary reporting systems.
Supportive Framework: The DVSA provides support to address compliance issues, ensuring continuous improvement and maintaining high compliance standards.
Live Data Monitoring: The ER scheme involves continuous performance monitoring through approved IT systems, providing real-time data to the DVSA and reducing the need for annual audits.
Fewer Roadside Checks: ER members benefit from fewer roadside checks and DVSA visits, saving time and resources.
Modular Flexibility: Operators can choose specific modules relevant to their business needs, avoiding unnecessary compliance tasks.
Cons:
Initial Setup: While the scheme itself is free, there may be costs associated with setting up and maintaining the required reporting systems and initial audit.
Perceived as Basic: The ER scheme may be seen as a minimum standard for compliance rather than an aspirational goal for some operators.
In the competitive landscape of fleet management, the DVSA Earned Recognition (ER) scheme stands out as a more favourable option for operators. Its direct impact on the OCRS through a 'blue' status, cost-effective nature, and continuous support from the DVSA make it a robust choice for ensuring compliance and safety. The scheme's focus on live data monitoring and real-time compliance feeds significantly reduces the need for annual audits, allowing operators to allocate resources more efficiently. Additionally, the modular flexibility of the ER scheme enables operators to tailor their compliance efforts to specific business needs, further enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory adherence. Under the DVSA's umbrella, operators are assured of a supportive framework that prioritises continuous improvement, making the Earned Recognition scheme a compelling choice for modern fleet operators.
For some operators, leveraging both schemes
can provide a balanced approach to compliance and excellence, maximising
operational standards and market competitiveness. By understanding the detailed
aspects of each scheme, operators can make informed decisions that align with
their strategic objectives and operational needs.
Transport for London (TfL) Operator Licensing Scheme: This scheme is specific to operators working in London and focuses on safety, environmental performance, and compliance with TfL regulations.
National Transport Authority (NTA) Operator Licensing Scheme: This scheme is primarily for operators in Northern Ireland and has similar objectives to FORS and ER.
Scottish Government Operator Licensing Scheme: This scheme is for operators in Scotland and focuses on safety, environmental performance, and compliance with Scottish government regulations.
While these schemes may have slightly different requirements and focuses, they all share the common goal of promoting best practices and improving the overall performance of the commercial road transport industry.
Mission Zero is not a specific accreditation scheme, but rather a campaign launched by the UK government to reduce road traffic deaths and serious injuries to zero by 2040. This campaign aims to create a safer road environment for all users.
While Mission Zero is not a direct accreditation scheme, it has influenced the development and implementation of various initiatives within the commercial road transport industry, including FORS, ER, and other safety-focused programs. These schemes contribute to the broader goal of achieving Mission Zero.